Bill > S6

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment establishing an independent redistricting commission to draw congressional, representative, senatorial, and councilor districts in Massachusetts. The commission would be composed of 12 members appointed by state officials, including the governor, attorney general, secretary of state, and legislative leaders, with specific requirements to ensure diversity and prohibit recent political office holders from serving. The commission must draw districts that are contiguous, equal in population, and comply with federal requirements, while avoiding the dilution of voting strength based on race, ethnicity, or political affiliation. The process emphasizes transparency, with public hearings in at least five counties, opportunities for public input on proposed maps, and open meetings. The commission's proposed district plans would be submitted to a joint legislative committee for review, with limited ability to modify the plans, and would ultimately require approval by the full legislature. The bill also provides a mechanism for judicial review of the districts and sets guidelines for the commissioners to act independently and impartially. The goal is to create a more neutral and fair process for drawing electoral districts compared to the traditional legislative redistricting approach.